Jaundice is a condition in which the liver isn't able to effectively process bilirubin, a byproduct of hemoglobin processing. Approximately 60 percent of newborns are affected by jaundice, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but people of all ages are affected by jaundice. If any of the signs of jaundice are noticed, a physician should be contacted without delay.
Discoloration
The first sign of jaundice in adults and children is usually a yellowing of the skin. This may be accompanied by a yellowing of the whites of the eyes. The Mayo Clinic states that this discoloration is usually first noticed in the facial area and spreads toward the hands and feet. Most often, this discoloration can be seen easily under natural sunlight or fluorescent lighting; however, in some patients, it may be seen in any light.
Signs in Children
According to the March of Dimes, most babies with jaundice will begin to develop yellow skin within a few days of birth. For this reason, it is recommended that all babies get checked for jaundice prior to being discharged from the hospital. Additionally, the baby should be checked again by the pediatrician at 3 to 5 days old. Some babies with jaundice may begin to show signs of jaundice other than discoloration. These include feeding poorly, difficulty waking up or crying or screaming in a high-pitched voice. A baby may become stiff or flaccid, although some babies alternate between the two. Arching the back or neck backward is another sign of jaundice. Some babies with jaundice will have unusual or jerky eye movements. Any of these symptoms should be reported to a pediatrician immediately. You can also take the baby to an emergency room for diagnostic testing and treatments.
Signs in Adults
An adult with jaundice may experience light-colored stools and dark-colored urine. Severe itching, fever, abdominal pain and chills may also occur. Because jaundice in adults is usually caused by liver disease, other symptoms that are a result of the liver disease may be present. These include flu-like symptoms, confusion, loss of appetite, weight loss, weakness, headache, nausea/vomiting and abdominal or leg swelling. The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that an adult with jaundice may show signs of depression or exhibit no symptoms at all.
